What Is Vitamin D? Why Is This Vitamin So Important?
[I:http://thehealthpages.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/KeithWoolley5.jpg] Vitamin D is known as the "sunshine vitamin" because the human body absorbs it by exposure to sunlight. It acts like a hormone, stimulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the intestines. This vitamin can be found in mackerel, salmon, tuna, beef liver, diary products, eggs, calcium-fortified fruit juices, canned pilchards, margarine, breakfast cereals, egg yolks and mushrooms enriched with vitamin D.
Unlike other vitamins, vitamin D is produced by the skin in the presence of ultraviolet radiation from natural sunlight. The human body needs 20 minutes of ultraviolet exposure in light daily to generate vitamin D.
This vitamin is found in several forms: vitamin D1, D2, D3, D4, D5. Our body needs ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). Studies have shown that Calcitrol, the active form of vitamin D prevents cancer and autoimmune diseases.
People who have dark skin often present vitamin D deficiency, but preserve better vitamin B. Because of this, they are more predisposed to fatal cancers, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and rickets. Light skin allows more sun absorption, leading to a higher production of vitamin D. However, sun exposure is dangerous for our body, so the best is to take supplements of vitamin D.
The presence of this vitamin in the body is beneficial because it helps us prevent liver or kidney disorders, rickets, osteomalacia, osteoporosis (reduced bone mineral density and increased bone fragility) and more. Vitamin D deficiency is often associated with several chronic diseases including memory loss, high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, cancer, tuberculosis, chronic pain, etc.
Vitamin D is insoluble in water, fat soluble and sensitive to oxidants and light. It is extremely beneficial for those who suffer from osteoporosis, cancer, stress, glucose intolerance and diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, tetanus, acne and eczema, rickets, bronchitis, back pain, etc. This vitamin is highly recommended in case of lactation and pregnancy, softening of the bone in adults, loss of appetite, cramps, nausea and more.
Hypervitaminosis D produces hypercalcemia and may lead to restlessness, anorexia, thirst, nausea, itching, diarrhea, etc. Vitamin D toxicity can also cause pruritus (itch) and renal failure. To avoid these side effects, you should ask for medical advice before taking supplements of vitamin D.
People suffering from atherosclerosis, kidney stones and nephritis shouldn't take vitamin D supplements. It's important to know that some medications may interfere with this vitamin, causing side effects.
Studies have shown that a proper intake of vitamin D reduces the risk of cancer, prevents high blood pressure and protects us from sclerosis or schizophrenia. Also, it helps us live longer. Daily supplements of vitamin D and calcium reduce stress during exercise. Other studies revealed that a higher dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D correlates with lower incidence of cancer, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. It was proved that this vitamin has a key role in helping the brain to keep working well in later life.
Vitamin D has many health benefits, being vital for the normal functioning of our body. Eat foods containing this vitamin and ask for medical advice if you want to take supplements. Although hypervitaminosis D is rare, the best is to prevent any possible complications and side effects induced by an overdose.
Vitamin D plays a vital role in your health. What is Vitamin D? Where can you find it? Find out how it works. Click here!